The S-Type Jaguar unveiled at the Birmingham Motor Show of 1998 had strong echoes of the company's glorious past. Not only did it share the name of one of the company's popular `60s saloons, but the Geoff Lawson styling appeared to have been heavily influenced by an array of iconic Jaguar models from the same era - not least the immortal MKII. Even the car's factory was steeped in history - the Castle Bromwich plant having produced countless Spitfires and Lancasters during the Second World War. Jaguar was in Ford ownership when the `new' S-Type came into being and they elected to base it on a modified Lincoln LS platform. The model was initially offered with the choice of Jaguar's 3.0-litre V6 unit (235bhp) or 4.0-litre V8 (282bhp) engine - either of which could be mated to a five-speed manual or J-gate automatic gearbox. The sumptuous interior was a typical Jaguar blend of leather and wood, intended to cosset and de-stress busy executives between meetings. The model enjoyed a series of upgrades during its nine-year reign, while the most potent version devised was the S-Type R, which joined the line-up in 2002. There were also a number of special/limited editions, including the Sport 200 that was introduced in May 2003 and which, as the name suggests, had its production run restricted to just 200 units. The dechromed Sport models were aimed at younger buyers and the `Sport 200' combined fast looks with such hi-spec items as: SAT/NAV, 18-inch Monaco alloy wheels, multi-function steering wheel, heated front screen, rear spoiler and electrically operated boot lid etc.

The mean-looking Sport 200 example on offer was manufactured in 2003 and finished in Black with a Black leather interior. It is powered by the 3.0-litre V6 engine mated to automatic transmission. We are informed that it has recently benefited from a change of brake discs and pads and comes complete with hand and service books - the latter showing a mix of Jaguar dealer and specialist stamps. The vendor regards the bodywork, paintwork, engine and transmission as all "good". Such well-appointed S Types make rapid, fatigue-free mile-eaters and currently represent extraordinary value for money.